Golf Course Rankings & Reviews: Turnberry, South Ayrshire, Scotland
Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses
Turnberry is synonymous with golfing history, and its courses are legendary. Here's a breakdown of the key layouts:
- Alistair Links: (Signature Hole: The Beast) This is the iconic course, steeped in tradition. Designed by James Braid, it’s a classic links course with undulating fairways, deep bunkers, and challenging strategic holes. The 7th hole, "The Beast," is a par 4 that exemplifies the course's difficulty and beauty. It demands accuracy and thoughtful shot selection. Local Significance: Alistair Links is the course where countless major championships have been won, cementing its place in Scottish golfing lore. It’s a source of immense pride for local golfers.
- Green Fee: £195-£295 (approx. $240-$360 USD / €220-€330 EUR)
- Middle Course: A more forgiving option than Alistair Links, the Middle Course offers a good introduction to Turnberry. It’s still a challenging layout, but with slightly less severe bunkering and more generous fairways. Local Significance: Popular with local golfers looking for a test without the full intensity of Alistair Links.
- Green Fee: £165-£245 (approx. $200-$300 USD / €180-€270 EUR)
- Sothern Course: The newest of Turnberry's courses, the Southern Course offers a more modern design while retaining the classic links feel. It's known for its dramatic coastal setting and challenging wind conditions. Local Significance: A relatively recent addition, it's quickly becoming a favourite among local players for its unique layout and stunning views.
- Green Fee: £185-£275 (approx. $220-$330 USD / €200-€300 EUR)
- Old Course: A historic course with a unique character, the Old Course is a true test of golfing skill. It features a mix of short, strategic holes and long, sweeping fairways. Local Significance: The Old Course is a beloved course among local golfers, who appreciate its historical significance and challenging layout.
- Green Fee: £225-£325 (approx. $270-$380 USD / €250-€350 EUR)
- Executive Course: A great option for beginners or those looking for a relaxed round. It's a shorter course with a friendly atmosphere. Local Significance: Popular with families and novice golfers.
- Green Fee: £50-£80 (approx. $60-$100 USD / €50-€90 EUR)
- The Karth: A nine-hole course, offering a quick and enjoyable round. It's a good option for those with limited time. Local Significance: A popular choice for a quick round before or after a longer visit.
- Green Fee: £30-£50 (approx. $35-$60 USD / €30-€50 EUR)
- The Academy: Designed for golfers of all levels, The Academy offers a range of practice facilities and a short 9-hole course. Local Significance: A great place for local golfers to hone their skills and for visitors to improve their game.
- Green Fee: £40-£60 (approx. $50-$70 USD / €45-€60 EUR)
Hidden Gems
- Largs Golf Club: Located just a short drive from Turnberry, Largs offers a more affordable and authentic golfing experience. It's a classic links course with a friendly atmosphere. Green Fee: £35-£50 (approx. $45-$60 USD / €40-€55 EUR)
- Milnock Golf Club: A charming, traditional course set in the beautiful countryside. It's a great option for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing round. Green Fee: £40-£60 (approx. $50-$70 USD / €45-€60 EUR)
Premium Options
- Castle Hole Golf Club: A private club with a reputation for excellence. It offers a challenging layout and exceptional facilities. Green Fee: £150+ (approx. $180+ USD / €160+ EUR) - Membership required for non-members.
- Gullane Links: While not directly in Turnberry, a short drive will take you to Gullane Links, consistently ranked among the world's best courses. Green Fee: £180+ (approx. $220+ USD / €200+ EUR)
Value Champions
- Largs Golf Club: As mentioned above, offers excellent value.
- Milnock Golf Club: A great option for budget-conscious golfers.
- The Karth: The most affordable option for a quick round.
International Golfer Essentials
Difficulty & Standards
- Handicap Ratings: Local handicap ratings are based on the Scottish system, which differs slightly from the USGA/R&A system. Expect a rating roughly 50-100 strokes lower than a comparable USGA handicap.
- Slope Comparisons: Slope ratings are not directly comparable. However, Alistair Links is typically rated around 128-132, while the Middle Course is around 120-124.
Language Considerations
- English Proficiency: English is widely spoken throughout Scotland, and you'll have no problem communicating at golf courses and in hospitality venues.
- Key Golf Terms:
- "Fore!" – A warning shout to alert anyone in the line of play.
- "Stance" – A golfer's posture before a swing.
- "Divot" – A piece of turf displaced by a golf club.
- "Rough" – The longer grass bordering the fairways.
- "Pin" – The flagstick in the hole.
- Communication Tips: Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you don't understand something. Scots are generally friendly and helpful.
Cultural Golf Etiquette
- Dress Code: Smart casual is generally acceptable. Golf trousers or shorts are required, along with a collared shirt or polo shirt. Avoid jeans, t-shirts, and athletic wear.
- Pace of Play: Maintain a brisk pace of play. Be ready to play when it's your turn, and don't spend excessive time searching for lost balls.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Scotland. However, it's appreciated to leave a small tip (around 10%) for caddies if you're using one.
- Respect for the Course: Repair divots, rake bunkers, and avoid trampling on the fairway.
Booking Requirements
- Advance Reservations: Booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
- Documentation: A valid passport is required for international visitors.
- Guest Policies: Most courses allow guests, but it's important to check the specific policy with the course in advance.
Seasonal & Climate Intelligence
Monthly Playing Guide
| Month | Weather Patterns | Rainfall (mm) | Temperature (°C) | Optimal Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Cold, wet, often windy. | 80-100 | 0-5 | Limited |
| February | Cold, wet, windy. | 70-90 | 0-5 | Limited |
| March | Improving, but still unpredictable. | 70-80 | 3-8 | Improving |
| April | Variable, with increasing sunshine. | 60-70 | 8-12 | Good |
| May | Mild and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine. | 50-60 | 12-16 | Excellent |
| June | Warm and sunny, with long daylight hours. | 40-50 | 16-20 | Excellent |
| July | Warmest month, with occasional showers. | 30-40 | 18-22 | Excellent |
| August | Warm, with a chance of rain. | 30-40 | 18-22 | Excellent |
| September | Mild, with pleasant sunshine. | 40-50 | 16-20 | Good |
| October | Cooler, with increasing rainfall. | 60-70 | 8-12 | Improving |
| November | Cold, wet, and windy. | 80-100 | 0-5 | Limited |
| December | Cold, wet, and windy. | 80-100 | 0-5 | Limited |
Peak Season Strategy
- Peak Season: June, July, and August are the busiest months.
- Pricing Fluctuations: Green fees and accommodation prices are significantly higher during peak season.
- Advance Booking: Book tee times and accommodation well in advance (several months) to secure your preferred dates.
Off-Season Opportunities
- Shoulder Season (April-May & September-October): Enjoy reduced rates, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather.
- Reduced Rates: Many courses offer discounted green fees during the off-season.
Weather Contingencies
- Indoor Facilities: Turnberry has excellent clubhouse facilities, including restaurants and pro shops.
- Covered Ranges: Some courses have covered practice ranges.
- Alternative Activities: Explore the local area, visit historical sites, or enjoy other outdoor activities.
Practical Travel Integration
Access & Transportation
- Airport Proximity: Glasgow Airport (GLA) is the closest airport, approximately 30-45 minutes by car. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is further away (around 1.5 hours).
- Rental Car: A rental car is recommended for exploring the area and accessing courses outside of Turnberry.
- Public Transport: Public transport is limited. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available, but can be expensive.
Accommodation Partnerships
- Stay-and-Play Packages: Many hotels and resorts offer stay-and-play packages that include green fees and accommodation.
- Nearby Hotels & Resorts: Turnberry Hotel, Trump International Hotel, and numerous smaller hotels and B&Bs are available.
Multi-Course Planning
- Logical Routing: Plan your itinerary to minimize travel time between courses.
- Distances: The courses at Turnberry are relatively close together. Gullane Links is approximately a 20-minute drive away.
Equipment Considerations
- Club Rental: Club rental is available at most courses.
- Club Fitting & Repair: Several reputable golf shops in the area offer club fitting and repair services.
Financial & Legal Framework
Pricing Structure
- Green Fees: Green fees range from £60 to £295, depending on the course and time of year.
- Cart Fees: Cart fees are typically £20-£30 per round.
- Caddie Costs: Caddie costs range from £80-£120 per caddie.
- Mandatory Charges: Some courses may have mandatory charges for things like range fees or locker rentals.
Payment Methods
- Accepted Cards: Most courses accept major credit cards.
- Cash: Cash is also accepted.
- Currency: The currency is the British Pound (£).